Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (One at Heart, Jessica Soho) dug deeper into their story and discovered that their mother had not really abandoned them; though she had to be away so she can earn money to send them to school.

Photo credit: Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (One at Heart, Jessica Soho)

It was discovered that Alexis Peralta, 11, did not just have AJ as brother but also had three other younger brothers. The family lives some 3 km away from Hinabuyan Elementary School in Dagami, Leyte. To get to school, the kids have to pass through 3 barangays but Alexis had the most challenging task of also carrying his brother.

When their mother, Luna Boloy, left to find a job in Manila, she took with her the two youngest brothers while the three older ones were left in the care of her second husband, Alexis’ stepfather; however, despite AJ being his son, the man didn’t really care for the kid and left Alexis to care for his younger siblings.

Worse, the children were physically abused as well.

Photo credit: Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (One at Heart, Jessica Soho)

Taking pity on the children, the teachers of the school decided to help them out. The boys were provided with money and food. School principal Geraldine Nical also offered Alexis space at the Principal’s Office for him and his younger brothers to stay in so they can escape the abusive dad and so he wouldn’t have to walk everyday while carrying AJ.

Young as he is, Alexis stood as both father and mother to AJ and Aljur. The school became their home, the teachers their parents.

But the children received better help when teacher Phoebe Cortes shared their photos online. The pictures quickly went viral, with many people offering donations for the brothers.

KMJS was also able to find their mother and surprised the kids with her homecoming! While Aljur appears to be angry at their mother, Alexis was so happy that she was back. Never once did he mention that he hated her for leaving him with this huge responsibility; instead, he even thanked her for taking care of him when he was small – something that his younger brothers were not able to enjoy. What a positive young man!

Photo credit: Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (One at Heart, Jessica Soho)

The tearful reunion was witnessed not just by the principal and the entire school but also by members of the local Social Services. Help was extended to the family so that they can have a sari-sari store; this will allow Luna to earn money without leaving the kids again.

According to the principal, someone had also promised to donate a parcel of lot for the family so they can have a place to stay.

Thanks to the power of social media, the kids were saved from their difficult plight. Kudos to you, Alexis, for showing us exactly how to love without conditions…